Didier Digard isn’t expected to spring any surprises when OGC Nice come up against Stade Rennais at the Allianz Riviera on Saturday, whilst Arsenal loanee Nicolas Pépé remains absent.
Pépé has been struggling with a knee injury since January when he was forced to pull out of a Ligue 1 tie against former side Lille OSC. The Ivory Coast international was rushed back to compete in Les Aiglons’ UEFA Europa Conference League defeat against FC Basel but has been out since.
With just five games to go until the end of the season, it is unclear whether Pépé will play again for Nice, given doubts over whether Nice will make the move permanent. Joe Bryan, Sofiane Diop and Youssouf Ndayishimiye are also absent with injuries.
Dante, who yesterday extended his contract with Le Gym until 2024, will start at centre-back alongside his usual partner, Jean-Clair Todibo, whilst Aaron Ramsey, who is also expected to remain at the club next summer, is also set to feature in the starting XI.
Likely Nice lineup v Rennes
Kasper Schmeichel – Melvin Bard, Dante, Jean-Clair Todibo, Jordan Lotomba – Khéphren Thuram, Hicham Boudaoui, Aaron Ramsey – Gaëtan Laborde, Terem Moffi, Badredine Bouanani.
GFFN | Luke Entwistle
